[jeneric]

We just adopted a 1.5yr old cockapoo. He is completely house broken and well behaved. The former owner did not have a fenced in yard as we currently have one. I have been trying to get the dog to come outside with me and 'g'o in our yard, but he is reluctant without his leash on. I would like to be able to walk around the yard with the dog and have him relieve himself when necessary. Also, I am thinking about getting a doggy door so he would have to be comfortable 'going' in his own yard. I know that he's used to be walked, and we do walk him twice a day for a long distance, but if time is short I want him to be comfortable in our yard. Any suggestions?

[Durbkat]

I would just let him walk out into the yard and take his time and work at his own pace as far as when wants to feel comfortable going off leash. Just give him time. Be out with him and when he goes give him a treat and treat him like he just won 1st place in a dog show! I know its the same as house breaking a dog and getting him to go outside but I think it will work. Does he know the go potty command? If not teach it to him on leash by saying go potty repeatedly while he is going and do as I said above. Then once he knows the command on leash, try it off leash.

[ebtide1]

the doggie door is a good idea, our dog found her "bathroom freedom" when we put in a doggie door, without much help from us. But also training him to go by using a "code word" like go poo-poo, might work as well when your not using the leash. After he understands what go poo-poo means, the leash probably won't be an issue anymore. Good luck

[poodleholic]

Since you'll be walking with him in the yard, start out with a long line, so he's comfortable. He's still adjusting to the change, so give him some time. I suspect it won't be long before he's settled in, and will be going on his own without the leash.

[Patt]

Thank you for adopting. It sounds like you have a real gem, well behaved and house trained!! Lucky you!
You've gotten good suggestions. I would like to add that with more time and patience I think he will realize he has a wonderful opportunity to go outside all by himself. Good luck!

[jeneric]

Thanks for all the suggestions. I will try to start with a code word, and then once spring finally arives and I can install the doggie door this should make for a great transition and a happy independent dog. I appreciate the feedback.

[JayBarnes]

Like everyone else has said, if you give him time and reward after he goes, I would think that would work.